Jason, Your build outs are excellent. I have been scouring RU-vid for 2 years for help with my HO train building and your ideas are in a class of their own. I have adopted your technique of wiring my Tortoise switch machines in parallel with my indicator panel and have added bipolar LEDS to each track of a turnout on my control panel so that you have RED/GREEN indicators changing color to show which track is open (green) and which is closed (red). A little bit more wiring, but is a helpful indicator. I still have lots of DPDT switches to wire, so would you be willing to share with me the contact information for the custom PCB company you used. I would assume they have your design on file. Did you use standard miniature DPDT switches or PCB design (Love My Switches web site) ? long or short lugs for PCB. Thanks, Ben
Hi Ben, thanks for the feedback. It was much appreciated. I was going down the path of bicolour LEDs, then changed my mind for no particular reason. I do like the concept, though. The PCB company does own the PCBs. They just do the printing. I had to pay someone to design the actual files I wanted for the mini DPDT. Are you in Australia or elsewhere in the world? Cheers
Hi there. The slip ring I believe I got from AliExpress. It was a while ago, so I don't have a current link. But if you search, you should find them..cheers
Nice job there. I had seen on another video that if you install the hinges on top of the left section and the table and installed some 1/4 “ plywood under the hinges and on top of the tables you get over the swing problem.
Hi mate, I have a 130' table on the way and would like to mod it like yours. Any chance you could send me the .stl for the slip ring holder? I've been looking for something like this over the past few weeks, excellent work! My BLI Big Boy and FEF will thank you.
Hey Phil. Assuming the diameter of the PCB is the same, what is the diameter of the slip ring you will be using? Either way, just contact me via Facebook Messenger, and I can send it to you..cheers
I have 9 stalls with 13 sectional tracks, machine shop and mainline. I have pictures of it and a drawing. Unfortunately, it looks like RU-vid wouldn't allow me to attach them here for you to see.
Your thoughts about the future of the hobby are spot on Jason. I am from the UK in which railway modelling, is going through a period of "realignment". The rivet counters have a place, they set standards which intimidate newcommers and especially the younger generation. Railway modelling is different things to different people and those who prescribe perfection will kill the hobby. If it makes you happy to sit in a different place on the accuracy spectrum, do it!
Thanks for your feedback. Totally agree...I was almost scared of these standards etc. The Australian one even goes as far as dictating the type of scenery..WTF? But I will push ahead and see where I end up...probably a set of modules for sale lol..cheers
Well Jason, that was an interesting video and lots of never-before-seen (by me) views of the underbelly. Yes, a different take on "things" - and I even pressed the Like Button, above. (Somebody's got to do it!)🤗Cheers! . . . . . . . 🚂Lawrence
Hi Jason, good to see you and a cracking set of clips highlighting what you have achieved in the most unique way. Not only are you an excellent model railway builder you’re also a top editor and most of all actor, I think Hollywood will be in touch mate!!😂 Brilliant Jason, thoroughly enjoyed it, cheers for now, John
hello Jason, top work as always :) on several occasions during this video, behind your back at the wall is a drawing of the layout -what are the dimensions of your railroad? best regards
Don’t you just love the Aussie attitude to the British formal facade, where everything must be just so? Jason, although your come across as laid back and DILLIGAF, underneath there beats an eye and heart for getting things done correctly and not slap dash, detail and CRAFTSMANSHIP, are the order of the day. Think about the power drawer - absolute perfection, that is the foundation of your “little” project. Thank you for showing us all the ups and downs. Cannot wait for the dressing of the Escarpment, ballast and scenery- they will be WOW. 👏👏👏
What a great video and it shows all the hard work you have done and put in to make this fantastic layout come to life.. well done. Geez that bloody assistant hey.. did you notice all of your hair styles and facial hair growths... a fun video.. nice to see all the good times.. ~;0) and the ..................................
Thanks Tim! Hair, beard, and the attitudes along the way. Oh, and I noticed a couple of spelling mistakes in this video as well...oh well too late lol. Regards
A fun video, filled with introductions, clips, outtakes and not forgetting the Assistant! Here is a links to all my video content on my channel: www.youtube.com/@JasonWood_Escarpment/videos
You may have already seen (Marklin of Sweden) channel but if not check it out regarding the toilet paper method lots of different ways to use it in scenery. I have been using it for about 6 years, I also used it on a display layout at an historical village.
Thanks, Ray. I am subscribed to his channel, as he has a lot of cool tips and tricks up his sleeve. I actually got the felt idea from he. Thanks for the comments..regards
Jason your layout is looking great you have years ahead for creating and enjoying, we all need a break and change from time to time. I have my model railways and war gaming. With your scenery the newspaper as a base then I would use toilet paper on top it does take a bit longer then plaster but it clean and their is no waist of materials. You can create any shapes you want, you end up with a snowy white base which becomes quite hard and paints really well. Like your ideas about Freemo, I have had to downsize in the last two years and have been looking at ways to have smaller layouts modules. I have one question what made you chose Formboard and how heavy are you modules. Thanks looking forward to seeing your progress.
Thanks for the comments, Aussie! Will look into the toilet paper approach, given we are out of covid lol. I think the formboard chose me..but seriously, it was the only 17mm plyboard available at the time. If there was only a standard 17mm Plywood, I would have gone that way. They are not super light, but I haven't checked their weight..sensitive topic 😉. Thanks for watching..cheers
Evening, yes there are. I believe minimum is 914mm. Here is the link to the standards: acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:AP:079e1cad-6f0f-4ff6-a643-6a6c0a514701 It is towards the end of the document
Very nice work. Well planned and neat. I have two questions please. Why did you go with wood blocking to support your levels as opposed to threaded Rod? Also, did you find it difficult to get the first level’s blocks to the correct heights and miter/slope? This seems like it is critical and not easy to do. Again, very well done. Great video. Thank you.
Hi Dave. Good question. For me, it was a cost factor, plus I find it easier and quicker to setup/build, but this is a personal choice. As you have mentioned, the first tier supports are critical and sets the foundation for the following tiers. If you have a drop saw that can be adjusted for the miter/slope. I designed my helicies on Anyrail, so I knew I needed 2 degree cuts, and then it was just getting the height cuts right.
Jason, thanks for the explanation! The Walthers turntables hve a weaklink in the bridge connection. Gives a lot of trouble, I know because i have the 130ft. This modification is a very good one! I will look into it to do myself!
Sorry, I forgot to come back to this query. I'll need to check that detail from my CAD later when I get back home from work. I can't quiet recall from memory
A very informative video; and timely too ! I am working on similar modules, but to N-Rail standards. I painted each piece before assembling them into the module -- easier for me to paint them unassembled -- so I will only need to do touch-ups. I am using pocket-hole screws so there will be no holes to fill and paint over. Also, anything that I can do with the framing members prior to assembly, I am doing -- including installation of Digitrax control panels; brackets to hold my points control panels; barrier terminal blocks for wiring connections; etc. Manipulating single pieces is far simpler than trying to deal with a fully assembled module. Your decision to inset the points controls and the DCC system panels is brilliant. In my case, since I want to include an back-lit track diagram, my points control panel will be removable for storage within the underside of the frame for transport/storage (held in place with magnets). I do like how you built the legs. How long are they ? They look to be almost as long as the module. Since I have mobility issues (I can't reach anything at floor level), I am not entirely sure how to make the legs adjustable from the top. I could put adjustable feet at the top of the leg (rather than at the floor); but how can I reach them for adjustment when the legs are in place ? So I am kind of stuck. I am looking forward to seeing how you install the alignment pins as that is something I have yet to sort out. How will you be handling where the rails cross the joints between modules ? I have some plain printed circuit board (PCB) which I plan to glue along the edge of the module where the tracks cross, and then solder the rails to the PCB. The PCB is about the same thickness as the ties (sleepers) and I am thinking of cutting the PCB to mimic the shape and spacing of the ties. Of course, I will remove the copper plating between the rails to prevent creating a short circuit.
Hi Timothy. Thanks for watching. I like your approach to your build. I was thinking of doing those pocket holes, but due to the size and weight, I wanted to use longer screws. My point controller inserts have also been designed to house an LED. I'll be using a bi-colour LED and will show red when the rails are diverged from the mainline. I wanted to have the best of both worlds with installing its own DCC Command station. So I can either run on my own or power a few other modules in a small setting, or it can be bypassed in a larger setting etc. I believe the legs are around the 1140 mm mark. The height is due to the ARMA Freemo standards being 1200mm from ground to top of track. You have an interesting challenge to overcome concerning your legs. Access to adjust is going to be a tricky one. I will be using the DCC Concept alignment pins and will have that in another video. As for the track ends, I have bought the ready-made PCB sleepers to glue down and, like you solder the rails to them...regards
@@JasonWood_Escarpment Hello Jason. Regarding my points control panels, as I said, it will be back-lit; but green for the selected route, and red for the unselected. I will be gluing the frame together as well as using pocket screws -- the screws being used primarily to clamp the pieces while the glue sets. For alignment pins, I got some brass ones from Amazon. I have seen videos showing tricks on how to install them... but I am still not quite sure what kind of adhesive to use -- CA glue or epoxy -- I have seen both used. Being in Canada, while we "officially" are a metric country, seeing/hearing measurements in metric is a bit strange. That said, I often use metric since it is far simpler to use than trying to figure out if 5/8 is larger or smaller than 19/32. Just easier to measure to the nearest millimeter.
This video will be part of a series depicting my FreeMo build Journey - you can also follow my Freemo journey on my Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/theescarpment For behind the scenes content!
Hi Jason I’m from Erica Vic. Agree with you about Luke’s videos, came across another modular standard, Freemo009, this to is sketchy in it’s standards, British and Aust. Based on
hello Jason -don't think it's an issue/problem being a bit "tired" after working for a long time on your layout -but I'm not sure if trying with FREEMO is the optimum way to refocus, as it's still model railroading -try something different, not related to modeling (a professional sportsman, let's say tennis, most likely doesn't relax his body, mind with playing tennis) -go biking, read, learn to play an instrument, gardening, ??? -this will relax your mind -all the best, looking forward to the next video of the escarpment, whenever that will be
Hi Franz, I appreciate the feedback. I know where you are coming from. I did do some other kit modelling outside of the train scene, and that served me well. The Freemo is still a good distraction as it gives me other choices outside of the train shed..cheers
Perfectly normal to have a break or a slow down. You can hit a wall, run out of steam, motivation or just plain ‘get sick of it’ and do something else for a while. You’ve been at it pretty hard for 5(?) years now? You’ve done well 👍 Fremo is a good diversion or side hobby and like the exhibition scene is a good social outlet. If I ever clear out enough crap in the layout room to store it I may have a crack myself!
Thanks Gary, spot on. I just needed a change of scene and a different perspective to this vast hobby of ours. Yes, the room required is a commodity indeed. It's not something I have sorted 100% to date, nor really thought about too much lol..cheers
I always enjoy listening to your model railroad philosophy. Sounds like you just need a break from the layout. You also sound like a lone wolf introvert modeler which I find to be among the best modelers I have ever met. Why? - because they spend their precious time modeling and honing the skills that bring unmatched rewards which only those that spend all their time in clubs, etc., can only dream of. It's simple really. Introverts put more time into their modeling and thus reap the greatest rewards. Extroverts see the hobby more as a fellowship and they really don't get much done. They need people more than the discipline. Introverts see it as an isolated discipline and don't need people around them to make them feel their best. With this in view, you might be disappointed with the club and fellowship. Nothing wrong with it, but not for the introvert. Personally, I have come to realize that once you take a break (build something totally different) you will return to your layout with a renewed passion in due time and all will be well. 😉Cheers ~ Boomer.
Hi Boomer, spot on with the introvert insights. I have no intentions of joining any club, as it is not a scene remotely suited or even something that could support my needs. The Freemo option was just something to share with like-minded people outside and to justbshare my experiences with the next generation coming through, without all the ego and politics that seem to do harm with most inspiring modellers. By the way, I love what you do on your channel, I have been a subscriber for quite some time now..cheers
Jason, what you're doing with Freemo reminds me of the woodsman who pauses to sharpen his axe. Afterwards, he is so much more efficient, accurate, productive . . . and happy!🤗 Thinking about those standards: We may one day see an IMRA international standard. But for now, how about just adding "Dash-B" as in, "AMRA-B"? (meaning, "AMRA or Better") Now that's a standard that we all can live with - a standard that can be "modified" as long as the mod is "better"!🤨🤔 And, a little philosophy - maybe someone can explain the difference between "perfectionist" and "rivet-counter." I'm thinking it involves what is expected from others along the lines of "my way or the highway" but I'd like to hear other's ideas, . . . as long as they are the same as mine!🙄 (lol) 🚂Lawrence
Hi Lawrence. Lol at the woodsman, a bit like "it's a Wood thing, you wouldn't understand".😉. I wouldn't dare put anything on the AMRA, one I'm not a member and two, I would rather poke and tease the bear 😁. So being a perfectionist myself, my take is: a perfectionist is an internal battle with oneself and a rivet-counter tells you what is wrong and takes the battle external with forcing their opinion(s)..regards
@@JasonWood_Escarpment Yes Jason, poking the bear is exciting, and fun as long as you can outrun your hiking companion! And "Dash-B" is a bit like poking the bear because, who decides what is "better"? The bear? Or the cubs and hikers?🤔 I have called myself both a perfectionist and a rivet-counter, but not at the same time! You're right though, one is internal and satisfying, the other is external and eternally frustrating (as well as obnoxious)! Maybe it's a projecting one's own false belief (that one's own perfectionism is a bad thing) onto others in a futile, fault-finding attempt to fix a problem that doesn't exist in the first place? But, isn't that what you (much more elegantly) just said?🤗 One thing that draws me to your work is your perfection-at-work, on humble display.🚂 I still LOVE that Graham Green piece at the end - you know - the "Wood. Jason Wood. Secret double-agent" music!....Cheers!
Some interesting thoughts you have put forward. The bear, the cubs, the hiker, the camper. If a tree fell in the woods, would one of them have heard it? And, would they go and investigate it? Hmm.....
@@JasonWood_Escarpment So, if a tree falls in the woods and there's no one around, does it make any sound? But you're asking, what if they were all there - would they have heard it?🤔 Hmmm... Good question, Jason.... Maybe. Maybe not. Depends... if they were deaf, or just all listening to their Sony Walkman (bears do that, too, ya know).... but if they were all watching train videos, they definitely wouldn't hear the tree or even notice it - and if they were all sitting around the campfire, having a few beers together, they probably wouldn't care!🥴 Well, I always ask my ex and her lady friends, "If a man were hiking alone in the woods, and a tree falls, would he still be wrong?" Oh yeah!😟
I totally follow what you're saying about the front people and the realistic higher costs associated with getting into the hobby using higher quality components. The toy train sets sold are rediculous and don't help someone start small and build up. I also note that model railroad magazines often start at a medium level of experience and go up from there in terms of complexity. Kudos to you for taking a break and trying new things. Looking forward to seeing more updates. Thanks for all you do!
How about having an online vote! Prototypical (Rivet Counters) vs Standards vs Rule One? Here in the U.K. nearly all “Railroaders’ are Caucasian. grey Haired Males. The younger generation do Dungeons and Dragons and knock out some fantastic models. We need to join/harness this talent not poor scorn on the use of DCC and sound.
The problem with an online vote, is how do you know everyone has been reached? Don't tell me to use a standard 😂🤣. But agree, just because they like to innovate/explore, doesn't make them wrong..cheers
@@JasonWood_Escarpment No I have not given up, jut life has got in the way. A long list of problems not related to the layout. Want to get back to work on it in a month, or 32.
Obviously, a case of OCD. Your entire layout is so "clean" and "neat". Your entire workspace is so "organized", everything in it's place. Everything I watch one of your videos, I get the urge to vacuum my floor, cleanup all the counterpart, reorganize all my supplies, clean all my tools, etc.. Your a bad influence on me, but I have to admit, things look alot better in my layout room about a day after I watch your video😅. Thanks
Hi Jason. I have been looking at Freemo as well. I did not like the Australian standard, like you have looked at the US and the New Zealand also Will James.
